Joy in Work

"People seem to have forgotten an important truth: that work is dignified, no matter what it may be, as long as it is of use personally, to the family, or to society. (...).

What we have lost in the process of mechanization is the simple fact there can be a joy in work that is found no other way. Labor, no matter what it is, can be its own reward. It does not have to be a work of art, or creative in the sense of involving mind and imagination, but if one looks at it as contributing to the general welfare, the most menial task can be worthwhile and add a certain dignity."

Sigurd F. Olson, Reflections from the North Country, From the essay "Tradition".